Malawi: Malawi’s Position on the Russia-Ukraine Crisis (01.03.2022)

Asian Democracy Network (ADN): International Community, Raise Your Voice, Assist Ukraine (01.03.2022)

Ukraine: Russia calls EU’s arms support a ‘hot war’ and warns EU citizens to not support the Ukrainian army

EU citizens and entities involved in the delivery of lethal weapons, fuel and lubricants to Ukraine will bear responsibility for any consequences of such actions to manifest themselves during the ongoing special military operation. They cannot fail to understand how dangerous these consequences are” (Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 28.02.2022).

The Russian-Belorussian invasion of Ukraine is on it’s fifth day. While there been talks, but they clearly only opened for further talks at a later date. Meaning there is nothing substantial yet, but the warfare is ongoing and the Belorussian counterparts didn’t hold their promises. As they sent missiles and troops from Belarus onto Ukraine. Meaning they broke the promise, which the President Lukachenko was broken even before words was uttered at the meeting. Therefore, the distrust of Kyiv was justified and Minsk should understand that.

Alas, we are seeing an expected Russian hard-line towards the European nations and European Union, which has decided to support Ukraine. They are now not only sending “prayers and thoughts” but supporting with weapons, artillery-weaponry and even fighter-planes, which it is now supporting the substantial parts of Ukraine’s defence without sending direct troops on the ground. Meaning, the EU and European allies are now giving vital support of the war effort in Ukraine and being a partner of Kyiv.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says this as well:

Once again, as many times in history, weapons coming from German soil will be directed against Russian soldiers. Against this background Scholz’s assurances about the importance of the process of historical reconciliation between the peoples of Germany and Russia sounded particularly cynical, with this decision, Germany calls on the ghosts of not a cold, but the very hot war. Too many sad associations are evoked by the prospect of further ‘military’ pumping of Kyiv by Berlin, which, apparently, does not realize that in the current situation, the weapons supplied on Ukrainian territory can easily become the prey of neo-nazis, terrorists and looters on Ukrainian territory” (Russian Foreign Minister Spokesperson Maria Zakharova, 28.02.2022).

We are now seeing the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs are not only directing their anger towards the crowdfunding exercise of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine. It is also directed at the military equipment, weapons and direct support of Ukraine from Europe/EU. This was anticipated, as the other party would react to the willingness to do so. If it didn’t cause a stir or reaction, it wouldn’t be effective. Ukraine needs this support and weaponry to be able to stagnate the Russian advances and ability to continue to defend itself. This is why the Russian wants neither citizens or states to support Ukraine. Since, they hope to overpower and conquer Ukraine quicker, because the Russians see this as a life-line to Kyiv.

We should expect that Moscow wouldn’t take it kindly to the military support of Kyiv. However, Moscow should also understand that they are using all their allies and possible connections to boost their war-effort. So, it is only reasonable for Kyiv to do the same, but in a war… everything gets amplified and any party will easily get violated. It should be expected that Moscow would react, but in the case of the Ukraine war. Europe is now unified and Russia feels butt-hurt. As Russia is becoming more distant and more alone.

The Russians has already sent warnings to the neighbours and former USSR republics. They are now sending it to the European Union (EU), Germany and the EU citizens, which is anticipated. As they are supporting the war-effort of their enemy in Ukraine. However, Europe support Ukraine here.

So, Moscow is lonely here and it is not like the EU citizens or European countries will feel the ramifications yet. However, there might be more hostile future diplomatically and lack of mutual meeting grounds between them. As the sanctions and weapons transfers are hitting Moscow hard. Peace.

Ukraine: The Arab and Middle Eastern Journalists Association (AMEJA) – The Arab and Middle Eastern Journalists Association (AMEJA) Statement in Response to Coverage of the Ukraine Crisis (27.02.2022)

Opinion: Putin unified Europe and NATO

In 2022 I wouldn’t think that one man would mean so much and have such vast powers behind them. That one of their orders and choices would change things so much. Because of what Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to do. He has initiated not only war against the brothers in Kyiv. No, he not only gone against a peaceful neighbour and the peaceful republic of Ukraine. No, he has actually made decisions, which will backfire for him in the long run.

Russia is not only meeting joint efforts of meaningless sanctions and pointless gatherings of press releases from Brussels. No, at this point, they are starting to target vital industries and banking functions. The European leaders and European nations are acting as a collective to punish Russia. They are going together and looking to means to harm and undermine the war-machine of Kremlin. That’s something we wouldn’t have seen coming.

What Putin didn’t see either was the sudden will of sending of weaponry, military equipment and advanced military technology to Ukraine. The European nations and NATO allies are now jointly supporting the military needs of Ukraine. They are selling and donating this to boost it’s effort to defend itself and show it support in this war.

Vladimir Putin who wanted to retake and reshape Europe. The man who wanted to revive the old empire of Russia and take back the sphere of which the Soviet Union ruled supreme. Has clearly lost an edge and not seen the sentiments across the continent. Instead of getting more nations close or wanting to associate with Russia. He is now making sure they are either distancing themselves or trying to find ways to get closer to the European coalitions.

Putin is ensuring that Finland and Sweden might join NATO quicker. Heck, his maybe able to get further former USSR republics to join EU and NATO as well. Because, they rather be part of these defence pacts and alliances, than risking the sudden invasion of Russia. That is the price and the additional cost of this invasion.

Vlad of Moscow didn’t consider this. That his action would have a chain reaction. Where further states and nations might seek a closer association with the bodies of Brussels. Because, they see the value of this and how it operates. They are actually safeguarding and doing what is right. Instead of coming with brutal force and total destruction. Since that is what Putin’s Russia is offering at this current moment.

It is a long time or I cannot remember seeing the bodies of EU working in such a joint effort. The defence and support of Ukraine has united them. The sort of war on their borders has showed them the need of the alliance and the union. It shows the value of the cooperation and coordination of the nations. In such a fashion, that Putin should feel lonely in palace, which he resides. Only waiting for “yes-men” fearing his will and orders, as they have to enact them. If they are possible or not.

Putin has ironically united Europe and solidified the need for NATO. That was clearly not the objective or the ideals behind the invasion of Ukraine. However, that is one of the achievements of the war. He has embarked on ab enterprise, which showed the rest of us. That we need each other to be safe from people like him. Peace.

Ukraine: ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Situation in Ukraine (26.02.2022)

Ukraine: Europe is starting to show some direct support of Kyiv

Just as the third day of invasion of Ukraine is ending. It is nightfall and darkness over the Republic. The reports from Europe and Ukraine is clear. There isn’t only symbolic support on the horizon for the Ukrainian government. The European nations, European Union and Northern Atlantic Treaty Organization is starting to aide the Ukrainian army in need.

The Ukrainian army is already standing strong against a superior enemy, which has both a massive amount of soldier, tanks and mechanical divisions. The Russian army should be far superior by any stretch of the imagination. Still, the Ukrainian forces and resistance has kept the Russian at bay. Yes, they have lost territory and had to give up some. However, in comparison to how the Russian was supposed to outflank and overcome them. The Ukrainian troops and people have shown resilience and resistance of epic proportion. However, it will only become more important in the days ahead. Since this is the beginning of the war and Russia wants a total victory.

Still, in these grim times. There is now proof that European nations and leaders are not only sanctioning Russian businesses, oligarchs and high ranking officials. They seem to take the hard sanctions and the ones that can hurt money-transactions and banking operations directly. Meaning, the only thing missing is rating agencies and other making government into junk-status and unworthy of trading. Nevertheless, there is some more actions than “our thoughts and prayers”.

What we are also seeing is that Belgium, Netherlands, Slovakia, Germany and plenty of other European allies of Ukraine is sending military equipment, technical equipment, ammunition and weapons to the Ukrainian army. This is the boosting it needs, as the NATO allies and EU are not sending soldiers to participate in the war. Which means this is the most vital contribution it can. Where the European allies are securing and adding weaponry to the defending nation, which faces an invasion. That’s the good news here.

Kyiv did seem alone, as NATO and United States was only boosting the neighbourhood and allies with borders to Russia. Now many of them is sending and trading weaponry with Ukraine. This gives them a needed boost and additional fire-power. Which is so vital. The Ukrainian is already using urban guerrilla warfare tactics and resistance, which will be the most important weapon it has. As they are defending the Republic on their own soil and homestead. Therefore, the Russians shouldn’t underestimate the sentiment of the Ukrainians and their love for their fatherland.

At least there are positive news, as well, as big package of military assistance from the Untied States on the way to Ukraine. All of these weapons, ammunition, heavy weaponry and others will help in the continues battle towards Russia. It shows that there isn’t just flattering calls with superpowers and allies, but actual substantial support. There is a need of this and it’s evident. As the air-raids and other actions are done by the Russian army on the front-lines.

We can finally say that Europe haven’t abandoned Ukraine and only sent them “good thoughts”. There haven’t only been condemnations and some symbolic sanctions or not allowing Russia to participate in Eurovision. However, there are now some signs of real genuine support of the war-effort. This has to prolonged and not only a one-time drop of assistance. There is a need of a systemic support and in a manner of which strengthen the Ukrainian army.

Still, we should be happy to see some sincere movements and acts, which gives the proper support the Ukrainians need. Now there will also be a serious need of humanitarian assistance and shelters for internally displaced persons. There will be a severe crisis, which will be worse by every single day. It will need vast support and logistics to get working. Therefore, we need to see more European solidarity towards everyone in need. Peace.

Ukraine: Address by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky (24 February 2022 – 18:01)

Citizens of Ukraine.

What do we hear today? It’s not just rocket explosions, battles, the roar of aircraft. It is the sound of a new Iron Curtain lowering and closing Russia away from the civilized world. Our national task is to make this curtain pass not through our Ukrainian territory, but at the home of Russians.

The Ukrainian army, our border guards, police and special services stopped the enemy’s attacks. In the language of conflict, this can be called an operational pause.

In Donbas, our Armed Forces are doing great, the Kharkiv direction is very difficult, the forces for the defense of the city are working, they are reliable, they are our men. The most problematic situation today is in the south. Our troops are fighting fierce battles in the suburbs of Kherson. The enemy is pushing out of the occupied Crimea, trying to advance towards Melitopol.

In the north of the country, the enemy is slowly advancing in the Chernihiv region, but there are forces to hold it. Reliable defense is built in the Zhytomyr region. Enemy paratroopers in Hostomel are blocked, troops are ordered to destroy them.

Yes, we, unfortunately, have losses, losses of our heroes. Yes, we have captured Russian soldiers. Our doctors are helping some of them – those who have surrendered. Many Russian aircraft and many armored vehicles were destroyed.

Yes, we see that many Russians are shocked by what is happening. Some Russians are already calling on social media that they are against the war. We see it. But the leadership of the Russian Federation is unlikely to see it.

So please.

If you hear us, if you understand us, if you understand that you are attacking an independent country, please go out to the squares and address the President of your country.

We are Ukrainians. We are on our land. You are Russians. Now your military has started a war. The war in our state. I would very much like you to speak on Red Square or somewhere else on the streets of your capital, in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other cities in Russia. Not only in Instagram – it is very important.

What do we see at this hour? For the world community, Russia is becoming an analogue of the so-called DPR – this is complete isolation.

I am in constant contact with the leaders of partner countries and international organizations. Russia has already begun receiving the first sanctions from a large package of sanctions, the most powerful in world history.

No one will be able to convince or force us, Ukrainians, to give up our freedom, our independence, our sovereignty. But it seems that the Russian leadership is trying to do this by destroying the potential of their country. Everything that Russia has done since 2000 can now be burned live in front of the world.

We emphasize that Ukraine did not choose the path of war. But Ukraine offers to return to peace.

What can Ukrainians do? Help the national defense. Join the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and territorial defense units. Any citizen with combat experience will now be useful. It is up to you and all of us whether the enemy will be able to advance further into the territory of our independent state. Please help the volunteer community and the medical system, for example by donating blood.

Politicians and community leaders – help people, ensure normal life on the ground as much as possible. Everyone should take care of their loved ones and take care of those neighbors or acquaintances who need it. The duty of journalists, an important duty, is to defend democracy and freedom in Ukraine.

I spoke today with many leaders – the United Kingdom, Turkey, France, Germany, the EU, the United States, Sweden, Romania, Poland, Austria and others.

If you, dear European leaders, dear world leaders, leaders of the free world, do not help us today, then tomorrow the war will knock on your door.

Glory to the Armed Forces of Ukraine!

Glory to Ukraine!

Sudan: Hemeti seeks a stronger Russian bilateral support for the RSF

Hemetti-led Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have already established strong cooperation with Wagner a private paramilitary force close to the Kremlin. The RSF leader, however, ambitions to get more Russian weapons for his militiamen. Moscow seeks to consolidate relations with the Sudanese military rulers and to convince them to implement a 25-year agreement to establish a logistical and technical support base on the Red Sea for the Russian Navy. Last December, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan Head of the Sovereign Council said the agreement, signed with the former regime, was still under review. But, al-Burhan expressed hope that its implementation would consolidate bilateral relations between the two countries” (Sudan Tribune – ‘Sudan’s Hemetti supports Russian recognition of separatist Ukrainian regions’ 24.02.2022).

Just as the warfare is happening in Europe. The Deputy Head of the Transitional Sovereign Council General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo aka Hemeti or Hemetti visited Russia on the 23rd February as he also did support Russian actions towards Ukraine in the separatist regions. This shows that he treasures the Russian friendship and alliance. As they are trading partners and supplying arms to the Rapid Support Force in Sudan.

That the Sudanese leaders does this now. Shows their friendship and where they are seeking aid. As they know these are preoccupied with conflict elsewhere. Since they can get the needed arms support and aid, which differs any embargo or freezing of accounts. Alas, it is a way of sophisticated getting in and around other Western responses to usage of force against civilians and protesters against the military government in Sudan.

Hemeti is also strengthening his own power and ability. As the RSF will become stronger and have better arms in the near future. While they are ensure trading of illicit minerals and other exports, which secures the Transitional Sovereign Council funds. This is both helping Russia in the possible hits of sanctions from the West. As it has a trading partner and ability to export certain goods from Sudan. Therefore, what is being done here is a practical support of the war-effort in Europe by Sudanese government. That’s a decision, which both parties have done in this current time.

War-Lords prefers to talk and make agreements with other war-lords. The proof of that is with Hemeti and Putin. These two are alike, but from different continents. What Putin is doing to Ukraine. Hemeti has done his efforts within Sudan for years and especially Darfur. While trading arms to Tchad as well. Therefore, this isn’t new, but shows what sort of character Hemeti is.

This here shows the crude actions of both parties and why we cannot expect men like Hemeti will be helpful to a transition to a civilian government. As his in this to strengthen his own capabilities and forces.

So, Hemeti didn’t travel to Russia out of charity, but out of a beneficial interests of both parties. To trade and get arms. That gives him more power in Sudan. Peace.

A memo on our dark times

And we are alive in amazing times

Delicate hearts, diabolical minds

Revelations, hatred, love and war

And more and more and more and more

And more of less than ever before

It’s just too much more for your mind to absorb

It’s scary like hell, but there’s no doubt

We can’t be alive in no time but NOW” Mos Def – ‘Life in Marvellous Times’ (2008)

Things will only get worse before it get better.

A war that we’re seeing in Ukraine will not cause things to get greater. Instead, things will only become more hostile and dire. European Union (EU), Northern Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has to act swiftly as a European sovereign nation is invaded by a hostile force, which happens to be the Russian Federation.

Things will not get better, soon. No, it will not. Not as long as the weapons are used and people are dying in a conflict, which has been ordered by one man and his tyranny. No, the time we are living in now. We are living in the effects of one man’s will over another nation.

This is Putin’s war and nobody else. Yes, he has army commanders and cronies who helps him. The oligarchy and grand supporters. Still, it is his decrees and orders, which is the reason behind the war in Ukraine.

We in Europe are seeing what is happening. It is happening so close to the shores of other European nations. The fear is spread in the Baltic nations, Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia. While Poland, Moldova, Romania, Bulgaria and even Turkey will call this all out. As Ukraine is all surrounding them and the Russian warfare is getting close to home.

That’s why this is a dark time. It is only the moon on the sky and the rest of dwindling lights is going away. As lives are taken and innocent lives are touched by one man war against another.

We will see markets crashing, spikes in prices and collapses of businesses. We will hear of lacking cereals, lack of wheat and whatnot. The Ukrainian forces will be marginalized … and be brutally slaughtered to the Russian army.

Europe will be altered for decades because of this. This war will make the tables turn and people will suffer. Especially in the Ukraine, but also in Russia. The innocent civilians … are the ones who is losing here. The ones who get caught in cross-fire.

The Russian Federation has decided this path and now things will change elsewhere. People will take sides and the war will show, which sides you are on. This war isn’t only on the sovereignty of Ukraine, but on European values. That’s the bleak reality here. As Putin has decided to be the judge, jury and the executioner at the same time.

We are living in dark times and it’s not getting brighter. The light is dim. There is still hope, but we have to be unified against the forces, which comes with ill and stand up for the rights, liberties and freedoms of brothers who are under siege by invaders.

Putin does this, but we shouldn’t accept it… and neither should anybody else. Peace.